The Sun. — London, England, 1864-03-19 00:00:00

Just published, price 23. ORPUL ENCE: k) Its Diminution, and Cure, witho a t injury to health. By JOHN HARVEY, M.D. Stith and ('o, Long-sere; or from the Author, 6, Chan do s - atreet, Cavendish-square. METROPOLITAN R AILWAY. -EAS TER HOLIDAYS. ADDITIONAL TRAINS will run between the CITY and PADDINGTON. SHAKSPERE SCHOOL OF THE ROYAL DRAMATIC COLLEGE. Under the Patronage of her . Most Gracious Majesty the QUEEN and his Royal Highness the PRINCE of WA LES. The Council of the Royal Dramatic College. considering that the present is a favourable opportunity for protnoting one of the main purposes of the . Institution they have founded. be. - to invite public support aid of the E REC LION and ENDOWMENT ot a SHAKSPERE SCHOOL for the clam deal and general education, with scholarships, of the Children of Actors or Actresses and Dramatic Authors—the noblest and most fitting Monument to the memory of the Player and Poet. The Council of the Royal Dramatic College beg to apprize the public, that all Subscriptions intended for the endow • ment of the Shakspere School should be paid only to the Master, New Theatre Royal Adelphi ; or to Messrs. Coutts, Bankers, Strand, London. A Public Meeting will shortly be held in the Royal Adelphi Theatre to advance this object, of which due notice will be given. Ladies, noblemen, gentlemen, and others interested in carrying out this design, are requested to communicate with the undersigned. BENJAMIN WEBSTER, Master. Feb. 27, 18E4. Committee Room (open from 11 till 4), 411, Strand. Secretary, Mr. Thomas Stuart. THE NATIONAL SHA KESPEARE MEMORIAL BUST. By FELIX M. MILLER, Professor of Sculpture, Govern ment School cf Art, published under the special sanction of the National Shakespeare aHOW Lnd Stratford- on-Avon Tercente nary Committees, by EL, JAMES, and CO. Copies will be issued, in the order of registration, to sub scribers only, and are executed in— Wedgwood Ceramic Statuary, 12 in. high, price One Guinea. French Terra Cotta 15 One Guinea. Bronze 8 Three Guineas Subscribers' names received by the agents in Lo idon and chief provincial towns (where copies of the Bust may be seen), or by the publishers, HOWELL, JAMES, and Co., Goldsmiths, &c., By a,intment to the Queen and Prince an d Princess of Wale, 5,7, and 9, REGENT-STREET, LONDON. Photographs and prspectuses forwarded post free on ap plication. SOHO ESTATE, HOUSE, AND GENERAL BUSINESS AGENCY OFFICES.—Persons requirincr Freehold or Leasehold Property, or havinz usiness and Fionses to be dispose i of, should apply to Mr ß . CHARLES 3ltittßAY, Auctioneer and Valuer, 2G, Gerrard-street, Soho. W. Valuations for Probate Administration, Fire Claims, Rail way Compensations, &c. Bents Collected. BENSON'S WATCHES, adapted for any climate and country: wholesale and retail. Chronometer, duplex, lever, horizontal, vertical, repe..ting, centre seconds, keyless, astronomical. reve•sible, and chronograph watches, from 290 to three guineas each. An illustrated pamphlet and prize list of every description of watch post free for two stamps. J. W. BENSON, by special warratt of appointment watch and clock maker to H.R.H. the Pena 3of Wales. Manufac tory, 33 and 34, Ludgate-hill, E.C. 1 F THIS SHOULD MEET THE EYE of any one troubled with Wind in the Stomach, Indigestion, or Biliousness, take PAGE WOODCOCK'S WIND PILLS. Thcir world-wide celebrity proves them of sterling merit. Of all medicine vendors at is. lid. ,nd 2s. 9d. ; or free by poet for 14 or 33 stamps from Page D. Woodcock, Chemist Lincoln. 31[ESSRS. BOTT, JACKSON, AND CO. execute COMMISSIONS on all races throughout the year. Market price guaranteed. Remittances. London and Westminster Bank. Post-uffize Orders payable at Camber well-park. Address—BoTT and JACKSON, "Man of the World" Wine tores, George-street, Camberwell-park, London. BONNET'S SILKS a LYON.—Every Article of commerce takes its title either from the inventor or 'manufacturer. and the more perfect the production the greater is the credit which attaches to the originator. BONNET'S SILKS are said to be incapable of identifica tion in Enejaad ; but the fallacy of such an assertion is ex pos d by the very trade mark of the firm, as exhibited by Messrs. JAY, of Regent-street. The followinp; interwoven mark may be seen at the end ofeach piece :—" Manufacture de C. J. Bonnet et Cie., a Lyon eta Injurieux." Wear guaranteed. LOYALCOVE` T- G AENGLISHRDEN OPERA, Last Night of the Management of Miss Louisa Pyne and Mr. W. Harrison. THIS EVENING (their joint Benefit), FRA DIAVOLO : Miss Louisa Pyne, Miss S. ryne ; Messrs. H. Cord, Weiss, and W. Harrison. After which, THE BEGGAR'S OPERA. To conclude with the National Anthem. Doors open at half-past Six—Uommence at Seven. • THEATRE ROYAL DRUR Y-L AN E, Managers, Messrs. Edmond Falconer and F. B. Chatterton. - . THIS EVENING, the Performances will commence with THE FOUR MOWBRAY'S. Master Percy Roselle. After which, THE MAN OF THE WORLD. Sr Perti nax, Mr. Phelps. To conclude with a new farce, THE AL %HAMA. Mr. G. Belmore and Miss Lydia Thompson. Prices as usual. Box Office open from 10 tilt 5 daily. THEATRE ROYAL HAYMARKET.— Sole Lessee and Manager, Mr, Buckstone. THIS EVENING, THE LITTLE DAISY. After which, BUNKUM MULLER. Mr. Sothern. To be followed by OUR AMERICAN COUSIN : Messrs. Sothern, Buckstone, Chippendale, Rogers, Clark, Gordon, Braid, &C. ; Mesdames Angel, Lindley, Hill, Harris, Snowden, &c And AN UNLUCKY MORTAL: Mr. W. Farren and Miss M. Harris. . Commence at 7. ROYAL PRINCESS'S THEATRE.- Sole Lesee and Manager, Mr. Geo. Vining - . THIS EVENING, PAUL'S RETURN. After which, THE COMEDY OF ERRORS. The Two Dromios, by the Brother 3 Webb. And JA.CR'S ARRIVAL. FROM CANTON. ROYAL LYCEUM THEATRE. Under the Sole Management of Mr. Fechter. Last Three Nights before Easter. DEL DE NIONIO (a Triumphant Success) will be repeated Every Evening daring the Week. THIS EVENING, the performance will commence with a New and Original Farce, entitled TIIE LOST CHILD: Messrs. IL Widdicombe, Shore, Garden, F. Charles Collett, ISP)reland ; Misses Percy, Pauline Le3lercl, Wood, Mrs. Lee, and Miss E. Lavenu. A ter which, at Eight o'clock, the 113th Night of BEL DEMONIO, a Love Story, in Twelve Taoleaux, taken from Stendhal's ' Italian Chronicle , ," by Mr. John Brougham. Messrs. Jordan, Charles, Broughim, Emery, F. Morton, Raymond, Moreland, Smith, Clifford, Collett, Sims ; Miss Kate Terry, Miss E. Lavenu, Mrs. Lee, Miss Elsworthy. The Public are entreated to take notice that No Charge is ;made to the occupants of Boxes, Box-places, or Stalls, either for play bills or for the safe keeping of hats and cloaks, and teat the attendants in all parts of the house are forbidden to receive any gratuities whatever. • - Box-office open daily from 11 to 5. Commence at 7. MR, FECHTER, in consequence of the accident he raft with on Saturday night, and by the advice of his uhysicians, will be UNABLE to APPEAtt until Eastcr Monday, March 28, when he will resume his character of Angelo, in "Bel Demonio." rVENV THEATRE-110 YAL, ADELPHL- Bole Prooriotor and Manager, Mr. B. Webster. THIS EVENING, THE PRETTY HORSEBIIEA.KER. bin J. L. Toole and Silas Woolgar. iVt Eight, LEAH . Miss Bateman, supported by Messrs. A. Stirling. R. Phillips, Bilington, Stuart, Stephenson, kburne; Miss H. Simms, and Mrs. Billing - ten. To conclude with. 11th time, THE AREA BELLE Messrs. J. L. Toole, P. Bedford, Romer, Miss Woolgar, and Mrs. H Lewis. Commence at 7. MISS BATE MAN.-LEAH.-EVERY VEN IN EVENING, fhe 145th and last ni;ht be fore Easter Monday, when Miss Batement will re-appear in her great impersonation of the Jewish ma!dftn until further notice. In order o give due effect to this most remarkable succesi of the se son, ea , ire y new sc nery by the celebrated ardsts Messrs. Danson and r.ons, aud Thosaps ,n, and new dr,ss.s and apno ntments have bean prepare t for its produc ti". —N. R. In consequence of the pressing and numerous nPPlications at the Box-office arrangement have now been made by which Scats m , y b obtainel a Fortnight in Ah v, nk.e. NIP- BENJAMIN WEBSTF,R in the DEAD HEART, MONDAY NEXT, 3.llrch 21. ROYAL ST. JAMES'S THEATRE. under the Management of Mr. B. WEBSTER. This Evening (SATURDAY), BENEFIT of Me. and Mrs. CHARLES 3IATTIEWS, the highly successful new Comrdy, by Leicester Buckingham, Esq., entitled TRE SI LVEIt LI~IIvG : Mr. Charles Mathews, Mr. F. Robinson, Mr. Ashley, Mr. Montague; Mrs. Charles Mathews, Mrs. Frank Matthews, Hiss Cottrell, Miss Wentworth, and Mrs. Stirling. er which, for this night only, ONE TOUCii OF NATURE : Mr. Benjamin Webster, his first appearance at this Theatre. To conclude with, first time these 10 years, the Farce of TWO IN THE MORNING : Mr. Charles Mathews, and Mr. Frank Matthews, his first appearance this season. Commence at 7. ROYAL STRAND THEATRE, Manager, Mr. W. 11. Swanborough. THIS EVENING, ON AND OFF. To be followed by UNLIMITED CONFIDENCE. Mr. 13,71f0rd, Mr. rarselle ; Miss Marie Wilton, Mi 93 Thorne. A ftcr the Grand Christmas Burlesque, ORPHEUS AND BURY OICE : Messrs. Honey , Wood, James Fenton, esdames Swanborough, Marie Wilton, Hughes, &o. Concluding with MARGATE SANDS. Commence at 7. H ,TIE THIRD EDITION OF " THE SUN , " Contain:mg the L=ll2cst SPORTING- LiTELLIGENTE, 6r-E. CC had Evart' _Evening of G. R. GLLNIE, NEW 3 AGENT, 1„ Connaught-terrace, Hyde-park, COALS. —The LILLESHALL COMPANY'S COAL S. _ Direct from their own Collieries. Marquis'. ...... 265. per Double 21s. per ton. Top ............ 251. ton . Nuts ' • • • l9B. „ Da ep ........... 225. " Well senened and delivered within five miles of their De pots. Wirestbourne Park-road, W., a nd 17, South Wharf, !Addington, W. Best Coke ........ .. lss. per chaldron. Terms cash. JOHN ,SCO TT, Sole Agett The Weather—Sun Office, March 19, 1864. THERMOMETER. This day:at Two o'clock 4B Barometer-30.05. Wind—East ; light breeze, and very fine. 't6.lP7 "IPPI "IT LONDON, SATURDAY, MARCII 19, 1864. Lord PALMERSTON, apparently, will insist upon bearing the whole brunt of it—meaning, that is, the whole of the disgrace consequent upon this hor rible scandal about Mr. STANSFELD and M. MAZ ZINI. It is about the most mistaken act of fancied chivalry that perhaps ever was heard of. How ever, Lord PALMERSTON will have it so to be—and, therefore, so be it. He has chosen his bed— and he must lie upon it. Mr. STANSFELD, it appears, did tender his resignation, as, indeed, it was only decent and proper that he should have done. The Prime Minister him self tells us, indeed, tells the House of Commons last evening, that Mr. STANSFELD so tendered it. But —upon his own deliberate responsibility—the vete ran leader of the Government declined to avail him self of the proffered resignation. "My answer was," said Lord PALMERSTON last evening, " that I did tiot wish him to take that step, that I wished him not to do so, and if any responsibility attaches to that deeisien," said the noble lord, in conclusion, " I am perfectly willing to take the responsibility upon myself." Whereupon there were loud Minis terial cheers. It sounds chivalrous. It seems almost a fine, plucky thing for the old man to have done. We believe it, however, to be the greatest mistake of his whole public life. It is worse than a crime —it is (we repeat it) a mistake. It will be a very long while indeed, not only before Lord PAL MERSTON, the oldest, and Mr. STANSFELD, the youngest among all the members of the Adminis tration, but before the whole of the Administration generally, as a body, are likely to hear the last of it. It will stick to the Cabinet as worse than a burr, it will cling to them like a taint. It will militate against their popularity and poison their reputation. The public will not easily lose the recollection of Mr. STANSFELD'S shameful panegyric upon a suborner of assassins, upon the man who gave the 1,0001 7 . and the dagger with the lapis lazuli handle to MARRIOTI, otherwise GALENGA—that moral dagger which was to have effected the murder of King CHARLES ALBERT. Englishmen generally are not likely either to lose the remembrance of the fact that .he accuracy of the astounding accusation made by the Procureur-Imperial, was distinctly admitted by Mr. STANSFELD upon severe croza-questioning, when at the very last he found it utterly impossible to escape from the reluctant acknowledgment—that letters intended for MAz• ZINI were sent through the post to, and received at Mr. STANSFELD•S private residence, 35, Thurloe• square, letters directed to MAZZINI under the name of Fiore, otherwise, in plain English, " Flower Thanks to this member of the English House of Commons, thanks to this member of the British Government, MAZZINI was (as the Procureur Im perial had said quite accurately) enabled to keep up his communications with his infamous correspondents. When the right lion. gentleman the Leader of the Opposition was re ferring the night before last to this indisputable fact. to this admitted and clearly demonstrated truth, Mr. STANSFELD himself rashly interjected the inquiry (with a sort of indignation in his very manner of putting it)—" What Correspondents?" He had far better have held his peace. For—what was the instant reply of Mr. DISRAELI—upon the spur of the moment—suddenly, when thus interrupted ? " What correspondents ?" exclaimed the member for Bucks. "You know them better than I do, I suppose. (Loud cheers.) What correspondents ?' says the hon. member for Halifax. Why, the assassins of Europe. (Cheers.) What correspondents ?' says the hon. member for Hali • fax? Why, the advocates of anarchy throughout the Continent. (Renewed cheers.) What cor respondents ?' says the hon. member for Halifax. Why, the men who point their poniards at the breast of our ally." (Continued cheering.) Yet it is of a man, like MAZZINI, who (during alt these years that Mr. STANSFELD has known him so intimately) has been cherishing precisely that class of correspondents, that the member for Halifax can have the consummate hardihood to speak in terms of eulogium the most extravagant and audacious! And not only was it thus with the member for Halifax, but it was thus, the night before last, with that peerless patriot the member for Birmingham, and with that highly moral and conscientious statesman the Chancellcr of the Exchequer. Speaking of this amiable MAZZINI, him of the "lapis lazuli" dagger (we beg par don of the " moral" dagger) the adviser of GRECO and GALENGA Mr. BRIGHT had the astennding effrontery to speak as follows :—" I believe," he said, " there is no man acquainted with NlAzziNi who will not say that so far as can b 3 divined from his character, from per. sonal association with him, he is a man of profound devotion—[An hon. Member- 6 TCI the dagger']— it may be not to the principles of the hon. gentleman who speaks [Principles ! Mr. BRIGHT means Diggers! but to the priveiple of the unity and indepandenee of Italy. rloreoTer, every man who has associated with him will admit he is a man of powerful and fascinating cha racter, that he obtains over those with whom he associates '4 singular influence [very singular!] —and that Mere are fe w persons who have ever been acquainted with him personally who would not, apavt from these special questions we are now discussing—[An Hon. Member—' Of the dagger'] (cheers)—express for him the highest esteem and admiration. (" Oh, oh.") And well, indeed, might some voices exclaim with horror in the British House of Commons at • observations so entirely opposed to all our notions of right feeling or even of deco rum ! But—while Mr. BRIGHT could talk thus mealy-mouthed about MAzzmi-of-the-Daggers— Mr. GLADSTONE could actually talk of the same Notorious Conspirator thus :—" I am b oun d to say that I never knew one of those men (he is speaking of those whom he has been accustomed to look upon as authorities in Italian politics) who did not regard MAZZINI as a person of great talents and a man of perfect truth and integrity. That is an important point in the present discussion [very !] and therefore, until the contrary is shown to be the case, I shall assume that 31. Mazzini is to he belienld onhts word." Bravo ! Mr. GLADSTONE, there is nothing like sticking to it—just as Mr. STANSFELD, " the youngest" of our Administrators (the ingenuous youth!) sticks to it—just as Lord PALMERSTON, "the oldest" of them (old enough we should have thought to know better!) sticks to it. And so—as Ithe upshot of it all--a sort of a dreadful M.zzinian flavour clings somehow to the Administration. It is very satisfactory that the Messrs. LAIRD should have published their correspondence with the Government. It was a very extra rdinary pro ceeding on the part of the Aliniste-s to refuse to produce the papers themselves; bat really they seem to thiak that it is the best thing tiey can do to THE SUN, LONDON, SATURDAY EVENING, MARCH 19, 1864. refuse everything that is asked for, and, if not quite possible to do that, to delay for an indefinite period, and thus spoil all the grace of the gift and prevent the required information from being of much ser vice to the parties concerned. The notion of con senting to produce the correspondence with America but not with the Messrs. LAIRD was perfectly absurd, and if anything could increase the odium which attaches itself to the Government for their conduct throughout the whole of this affair, it would be such want of common courtesy, such extreme reticence, and such overweening self-assumption. At all events their plans are so far frustrated, and no one need now remain in ignorance of the trans actions which have from first to last engaged so much attention, and awakened such natural interest and excitement. A few years back, had a sketch of these proceedings been traced, how it would have been been scouted, reviled at, and declared fallacious in the extreme, that Ministers of England should treat the honourable and respected subjects of the realm with a brusquerie and a want of common fairness which has seldom been equalled in this country ; and to obtain a parallel we must seek among the arbitrary enactments of despotic powers. As if it was not enough:to notify that Government thought it necessary to detain the vessels until due inquiries had been made concerning them, and the most substantial proofs afforded of their ultimate destination, and as if the real object of all this fearful confusion and intense commotion could not have been as effectually gained by the adoption of more calm, rational, and dignified proceedings. Again, it was a most monstrous thing for Minis ters to doubt the good faith, and question the validity of the assertions made by the Messrs. LAIRD, than whom none in the land bears a higher character for commercial uprightness and integrity. The excuse put forth, that had the El Tousson been allowed to take the trial trip she would never have returned, was a very sneaking way of getting off a promise, and diplayed a shuffling and a hesitation totally un suitable for the occasion. Yet it is constantly wit nessed that when men in any rank of life and phase of condition undertake to do underhand work, they become insensibly imbued with the feeling that actuates those accustomed to such actions, and well versed in the details of subter fuge. It is a crowning proof that Ministers had really no faith in the justice of their cause when they interposed delay upon delay, lest time when it was professed that the affair was a most momen tous one, and are now, at the expiration of six months from the seizure, scarcely in a more forward state as regards any definite conclusion. It was exposed the other evening in the House how it was not till the eve of Parliament that information was filed against the suspected vessels, and this circumstance alone is quite conclusive evidence alike of disingenuousness and pertinacity. It is almost to be wondered at that Ministers have not heard more of their disgraceful conduct in respect to their treatment of Messrs. LAIRD, and of their unwarrantable trifiirg with the case. If there was a shadow of foundation for their suspicions, why not seek to verify them in the face of day and in the sight of man ? Why not make an example of the offenders and bring them to condign punish ment. This would have been the proper course to have chosen ; it would have intimidated others from following in their pernicious ways; it would have been a good assurance to foreign States that no prejudice or partiality for fellow-countrymen would militate against furthering the aids of jus tice, and honourably maintaining the rights of nations, Though dealing a hard measure, still, had the Government chosen to pursue this open line of action, many might have gainsaid their policy, but few could have questioned their motives, and none, dared to have doubted their sincerity. It is not too much to say that the Ministers feared to face the decision of that law which they declared to have been infringed in its statutes and violated in its principles. The ends of the earth might have received the tidings of the steam rams in the Mersey, before any definite or decided steps had been taken. The object of all these frivolous pre. texts is very plain, and the purpose of the intoler able delay but too transparent. The session must be tided over, and then all the rest can easily be managed. Ministers are trifling with the temper and defying the opinion of the nation with an effrontery that past days of intolerance and corrup tion could not have surpassed ; but when the Rubi con has been passed, when patience is exhausted and hope becomes extinct, all these secondary causes of irritation, these minor aggravations, will assume a double force, and appear as fatal evidence against them. Buoyed up by success and inflated with pride of place and power, men may do very much as they please for a while, but when the pleasant time is past, and the sunshine of official existence fades away into the cold shade of opposi tion, their errors are brought to light which have been chronicled with jealous care against the evil day of failure. Amid the long array of defalca tions, mismanagement, and blunders, which disgrace the annals of the PALMERSTON Cabinet, the episode of the steam rams of the Mersey will occupy a dis tinguished place and cast a dark shadow around. Long may it be before we find this conduct re peated in our Statesmen, these insults heaped upon our merchants, this discredit affixed to our country. It was not many years ago that it was considered that the famous Civis Bomanus Sum was not more Ipotent as a protection than the fact of belonging to this country. But those days will soon be for ever past if the present foreign policy prevails. It may be questioned if many other nations are not Bupe• rior in their outward attitude, however inferior their home arrangements may be. For the sake of consistency, for the love of truth, and for the fear of ridicule, let not those who have made themselves conspicuous in such affairs as those certified in the correspondence here alluded to again venture to accuse their opponents of making the " humiliation and degradation of their country a stepping-stone to office." The frequent cases of starvation which have occurred recently in the metropolis have naturally engaged attention, and some wise suggestions have been made upon the subject by several persons who have studied the matter. There is a letter to the lii ies of yesterday, which seems to present some of the best ideas on the question that have yet been published. The writer very properly alludes to the faulty system of rating which prevails, and cites several instances to prove the evils that result therefrom, and the great inconveniences that are thus engendered. It seems strange, indeed, that more has not been said heft. re on this topic, and that more attention has not been paid by the proper authorities to so very important a subject. One of the best proofs that can be adduced is given in the letter alluded to above, that is that the most numerous deaths always cccur in the parishes that are rated the heaviest. 'Why an equalised rate all over London is not immediately effected it is im possible to understand, and it is an imperative duty on the part of the Government that they should institute inquiries and make investigations for the purpose of certifying as to the necessity that exists tor this remedial measure being promptly inaugu rated. It is a cruelty to the poor, and an injustice to the ratepayers in the, over-burdened districts, and, in fact, the present mode of procedure militates in so many ways against the well-being of the com munity that all who have the best interests of society at heart can hardly fail to lend their aid and co-operate with those who propose any plan for the adjustment of this social grievance. It seems strange that not one among the philana threpie members of the Legislature has taken up this question, and thus afforded the misin formed or ignorant an opportunity of joining their forces and exerting their influence to gain this inestimable advantage. In this letter we find that mention is made of the time at which distress prevails to the greatest extent. During the winter months it is of course on the increase, and becomes urgent by Christmas; it then extends over the inter vening months till March, and afterwards gradually lessens. The writer proposes that an increased allowance be made to the poor during this period of severe distress—this to be effected without in creasing the rates by modifying the ratio afforded in the summer. There is great sense in this pro posal, and one that may well come under considera tion. Indeed the proposition has so much to recom mend it that it seems singular that it should not before have suggested itself to some who studied the case in all its bearings. As it is well put here, " every housekeeper knows that people require more food in winter, more coals, more clothing, in fact more bodily support in every way than they do in summer, and yet little or no notice is taken of the fact in the regulations of the Poor Law Board or of the guardians in the several unions." A little forethought and proper precautions in these matters may work wonders, and while some one despairing of ever effecting any radical change for the better, the introduction of a very simple change may, in the course of time, tend to remove the obstacles that seem insurmountable. It stands to reason that the destitute must stand in need of nearly double the amount of out-door relief in the inclement weather, and yet the wise ones who preside over such matters have so decreed affairs that the help is precisely the same. Surely it is possible that before another winter this admirable plan may be put in force, and thus the poor distressed may no longer pine in want and indigence, but have 4st least welcome, if small, ad dition to their support. Nothing can extenuate the negligence of those who have allowed the whole system of parish rates to fall into the state in which they now are ; and if through prejudice or narrow views they persist in checking the projects of re form and adhering to the old abuses, the disasters and deaths that occur will lie at their doors. When the lives of fellow creatures are at stake, it is piti ful to find authorities so bigoted to their own im pressions, and officials so prone to be obdurate, and al ways to prefer messures to men. There has been no lack of evidence to show that most comprehen sive changes are imperatively called for; and the most hard and prosaical political economist can hardly defend a system which has for its results such sad and direful casualties. It is sad to reflect upon the vast amount of misery that is endured be fore a remedy is introduced in these parochial affairs; and it is urgently to be trusted that some decided steps will be taken before long to settle this much-talked of question of parish rates. This cannot now be considered any longer i g the shape of a monetary grievance to be disesassedatlesisuarpe leisure, or a political measure that can be settled at any time; but the subject is 'etc that affects the vital concerns of the comrs,a n ity, and the best interests of humanity are at stake. It is not too much, then, to expect those qualified to aid in the good work to be up and doing with a strong will and a steadfast purpeee. The Oxford and Cambridge Billiard Match, The first of "the events" came off last evening, viz., the four- handed billiard match between the chosen " champions of the board of green cloth." At eight o'clock play began, Messrs. Payne and Horne representing Cambridge, and Messrs. Starkey and Hobbs playing for Oxford. The game was 500 up, Cambridge playing first, and giving a miss. Mr. Hobbs followed, and did likewise. Payne followed suit, and then Starkey made a pretty break of 14, including some neat cannons. They alternately scored a few till the game was called 12 29, when 2 to 1 was laid on Oxford • They all played badly, but the Cambridge side got a little the best of it, Mr. Home commencing some beautiful cannons, which he continued to play throughout the evening. When the game was 29 to 39, and, as Cambridge commenced, we will give their score first throughout. Mr. Starkey increased the advantage to 45, when Mr. Horne sot the first decent break, numbering 17. Hobbs then, added a few, and, after the other players had had ano", i er turn, Payne carried the game up to 58 all. A mist 'leaving been given, Horne made the Cambridge score i 0 a-head, a fluke assisting him, and again made soma . oeautiful cannons when it came to his turn increasing f l ea) majority for the Light Blue, the numbers being 9a to 81. Up to this time the odds had been 2to 1 and 8 to 4 on Oxford (taken) ; but £5 even on Cambridge became current. Home passed the 100, and gat up to 118 92; and, assisted by his partner, went still further ahead, the marker calling 140 105. Mr. Horne, who did the lion's share, had a nice break for 22, including a beautiful "jenny," and a lucky red hazard, his total being 162 ; and Mr. Hobbs, on the part of Oxford, picked up 129, Each adding somewhat, they continued to score, the Cam bridge representatives steadily increasing their advantage until the game ,was called 210 164 (5 to 4 on Cambridge taken). Starkey, from whom great things had been ex pected, played beautifully for 25, but Horne, determined to be with him, neatly added 17 to the Cambridge lot. With out any notable additions in, Number, but realised by the beautiful cannons made. by Home, the brilliant hazards made by Starkey, the rapid scoring of Payne, and the judgment and careful play shown by Hobbs, the game pro- ' ceeded ute',,il 253 223 was announced, the Oxford having slightly diminished their opponents' lead. Careful play was tae order of their going, and it resulted to the benefit of Cambridge, who again crept on and on until they made their majority 40 when they passed the third hundred, which Mr. Payne did in a pretty break of a dozen, the score then being 307 267. Again Home went on, and added 10, and so did his antagonists, and when they added 7 he added 12 more, so that the figures became 329 to 279. This majority of 50 raised the hopes of the light blue, and Payne's ad dition of some mare rattling hazards put them into a majority of 60. With very little variation the game continued, Mr. Starkey playing unluckily, and Mr, Hobbs, although making some good strokes, failing to continue an opening successfully when he had one. Mr. Payne having con tributed 24, the marker called 365 290, and 2 to 1 was offered, but 3to 1 wanted. As the game proceeded, the Oxford men fell still further astern until Mr. Starkey seemed to recover his form and reduced the majority to 60. At this period both aides played rather fast, Mr. Payne and Mr. Starkey especially, and when the firstanamed gentleman passed the four-hundredth point 70 ahead, he was leudly cheered, and 3to 1 was offered on Cambridge. From that Doint up to 422 365 nothing of especial notice occurred, but the Oxford players recovered themselves, and when the marker annnounced 427 377 Starkey had the cue, and 4 to 1, which was offered on Cambridge, was taken. From then to the end of the game the match was intensely exciting. Gradually but surely the Oxford players re covered their lost ground, Mr. Hobbs especially playing with great care, while Mr. Horne on the part of Cam bridge, it must ba said, certainly fell off somewhat. At 475 426 the interest was very • great, and Mr. Starkey played with a brilliancy that revived the hopes of his party, and at 485 449 he had a chance at the red which it required a Roberts to make use ot, and his letting his opponents in (in a different sense to what the champion would have done) was not surprising. Each player missed many easy strokes, and the merriment that arose from flukes being designated as fine play, and similar exhibitions of University wit—always, be it observed, at the presumed expense of an antrvonist—was exceedingly amusing. The players themselves were very anxious, Oxford to win a game if poreible " out of the fire," and Cambridge to score the first of three events out of the week. The dark blue, however, had too far to go; the counsels of Starkey failed to endue Hobbs with a due capacity of performance, the red was left over the middle pocket, and Payne made a brilliant hazard, and doing ditto in the top pocket, game was called, the score standing at the finish : Cambridge Oxford The shouts of approbation that greeted the victors be tokened the generosity of their opponents, and with what amount of applause victory would have been received by the Oxonians those whu know their capabilities can judge. The Cambridge men were of course delighted at their vic tory, and it is no disparagement to Mr. Payne's invariable fine play to say that his opponent carried off the laurels of the evening. 'he Single Nafoh will be plspecl this evening, LATEST INTELLIGENCE. (REUTER'S TELEGRAMS.) ST. PETERSBURG, MARCH 19. The Bank of St. Petersburg has reduced its rate of discount to 51 per cent. on bills at three months, and to 6 per cent. on bills at six months, and ad vances on goods and securities. PARIS, MARca 19. The Duke of Saxe Coburg had an audience of the Emperor and Empress yesterday, in order to take leave. The Consizeutionnel of today announces that M. Frederic Levy has decided upon becoming a candi date at the election for the sth District of Paris. ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN THE PRUSSIANS AND THE DANES. SONDERBURG, MARCH 17, 10 P.M. A severe engagement took place yesterday along the whole line of the Dappel forts. Early in the morning the Danes reconnoitred the Prussian right wing. Later in the day large masses of Prussians attacked the Danish centre and right wing, and at the same time a violent fire was opened upon the left wing from the Broager batteries. One en trenchment alone received 250 projectiles. The Danish works took an active part in the engage ment, which lasted until the evening. The hardest fighting occurred near Avembjerg and the village of Duppel ; the latter being held by the Prussians. Several villages were burnt. The Broager batteries did only slight damage to the Danish works, all of whioh are still fit for service. The Danish loss was not inconsiderable, while that of the Prussians was probably greater, as many shells burst in the midst of their columns. Four regiments were engaged in the action. THE BOMBARDMENT OF DUPPEL, COPENHAGEN, MARCH 17, 9 r.m. A report of the Commander-in• Chief to the Minister of War, published here to-day, states that the batteries of the enemy stationed at Broager opened fire yesterday at 10 a.m. on the Dappel en trenchments. The bombardment lasted till 3 p.m. The enemy fired altogether 500 shots. We replied occasionally in all 35 times. Our firing seemed to be successful, as two of the enemy's batteries were silenced for some time. Our materiel has not been injured, but our losses in men were not inconsider able, owing to an unfortunate explosion. We have 2 officers killed and 49 wounded, 16 privates killed and 119 wounded. A large force of the enemy's infantry, with 2 guns, was hurled against our right wing. They attacked Ragehol, but speedily with drew. The same report says :—" On Monday night 600 Prussians. covered by two batteries planted on the Holstein coast, passed over in fishing boats to the island of Femeren, where they captured the gar rison, consisting of 90 men. An iron transport ship was abandoned, but was retaken from the enemy, by our gunboats on Tuesday. The commandant at Fredericia reports that the enemy appnached the fortress yesterday at various points, probably to reconnoitre our positions. Our foremost works were fired upon by the enemy's artillery. THE BOMBAY MAIL. The following telegram has been received at Mr. Reuter's office from the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company : MALTA, March 17. The Vectis and Dalhi leave at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. this day. The former may be expected at Marseilles on the 20th, the latter at Southampton about the 26th inst. The Malta brought the mail to Suez, arriving there on the 13th (correct date). OUTWARD MAIL OF 20ra AND 26TH JANUARY. The Carnatic reached Msdras on the 24th of February. The China and Bombay left Gallo on the 21st ult. for Hong Kong and Sydney respectively. NAREETS—nis Day. COVENT GARDEN. Our market is seasonably supplied with fruit and vege tables. There is a fair business doing at the annexed quotations. FRUIT. 5. et s. d. , s. d. a d Pine apples 8 oto 10 0 ' Mulberries,prpt..o oto 0 0 Colonial do., each 0 oto 0 6 Cherries, per lb. 0 oto 0 0 Grapes,per lb 6 oto 12 0 Foreign ditto, purio oto 0 0 Foreign do. 1 6to 2 6 i Filberts, per lb 2 oto 2 6 Melons ... Nectarines, per dz 0 oto 0 01 Cobnuts, per lb .. 0 oto 0 0 Apples, per hi-sv. 2 eto 4 0 I Almonds, per bus 0 oto 0 0 Fears, per do Oranges, per 100..3 6to 8 OiPeaches.. ...... 0 oto 0 0 Lemons, per 100 3 6to 7 0 Currants, per h.sv 0 oto 0 0 Gooseberriesht aye° oto 0 0 I Plums, per do. .. 0 oto 0 0 Strawberries pr pt 0 oto 0 0, Greengages, pr do. 0 oto 0 0 VEGETABLES. Greens, dz bunch 5 oto 6 0 Shallots, per lb .. 0 oto 0 0 Cabbages, pr doz 0 10 to 1 6 Horseradish, pdo 1 oto 2 0 Lind ditto 0 oso 0 0 I Parsley, per ditto 0 oto 0 0 Savoy do., pr dz 0 10 to 1 6 j Celery, per ditto 1 oto 1 6 Cauliflowers, pdz 1 oto 3 0 Beet, per doz. .. 0 oto 0 0 Brocoli, per bus. 0 Bto 1 0 Parsnips, per do. 0 oto 0 0 Potatoes, per ton 60 oto 95 0 Small salad, p. pn, 0 oto 0 0 New ditto, pr pt ..1 oto 0 0 Mushrooms. p pt. 0 9to 1 3 Turnips, dz bunch 2 6to 3 6 Artichokes, each 0 oto 0 0 Carrots,pr do 4 6to 5 6 (A)EI lett, score .. 0 oto 0 0 Cucumbers 0 oto 0 o'i Mint and savory..o oto 0 0 Garlic, per lb Sorrel, per sieve 0 oto 0 0 Radishes, dz hnds 0 oto 0 0 Green peas, h.-sv. 0 oto 0 0 Tomatoes. doz... 0 oto 0 0 French beans, h.s. 0 oto 0 0 Chillies, per ditto 0 oto 0 0 Onions, doz. bn.. 2 to 2 6 Capsicums, per do 0 oto 0 0 New Do., dz bun 0 oto 0 0 I Rhubarb, per bun 0 9to 1 6 Spinach Brussels sprouts 1 9to 2 6 Seakale, par bun. 1 oto 2 6 POULTRY. Turkeys, 4s Od to 8s Od ; geese, bs Od to 75 Od each ; goslings, 6s to 8s Od ; ducks, 4s Od to 5s 6d • ducklings, 4s Od to 5s Od; rabbits, is 3d to is 9d each; wild do., is to is 2d ; pigeons, Os 6d to Os 9d each; Surrey fowls, [Os Od to 14s Od ; chickens, Os Oct to 8s Od; barn-door fowls, 3s Od to 6s 6d ; capons, Os Od ; hares, 2s 6d to 3s Od ; ptarmigan, is 3d to is 9d each ; pheasants, Os to Os Od ; partridges,Os Od to Os Od ; woodcocks, 3s to Os Od; snipes, Od to is Od; teal, Is 3d to Os Od ; wild ducks, le 9d to Os Od ; widgeons, is Od to Os Od ; plovers, Os Oil to Os 10d each ; guinea fowls, Os Od to 6s 6d ; roasting pigs, Os Od to Os Od each; Ostend fresh butter, Os lld to is Id ; English, is ld to is 3d per lb ; English eggs, 75 Od to lOs Od ; French do., 5s Od to 9s Od per 100 ; leverets, 3s Od to 3s 6d ; grouse, Os Od to Os Oct. BILLINGSGATE. Salmon, is 6d to 1 s 10d ; trout, 01 to Os ; eels, 5d to 10d ; prawns, Os; pike, skate, sturgeon, and halibut, 6d per lb. ; turbots, 5s Od to 15s ; cod, 2s Od to 103 Od ; brills, 2s Od to 6s Od ; doreys, 5s Od to 5s 6d ; mullets, Os 6d to is 6d ; lobsters, is to 330 d ; crabs, 6d to 2s 6d ; plaice and garnets, Od to Oa Od each; soles, 3d to 3s Od per pair; common oysters, 183 to 24s ; natives, 65s to 70s per bushel; whitings. 2s Od to 5s ; haddocks, 6s to 9s ; smelts, Os Od to Os Od ; flounders, Os Od per dozen ; mackerel, Os per 100 ; fresh herrings, 7s to 83 per 100 ; bloaters, Os to Os per 100 ; carp and tench, Os Od to Os per brace. NEWPORT. Beef, from 3s 2d to 4s 4d; mutton, Ss 8d to 4s 8d : lamb, Os Od to Os Od; veal, 4s 2d to 4s 10d ; and perk, Ss 6d to 4s Gd per Blbe, by the carcase. WHITECHAPEL. Beef, from 3s 4d to 4s 4d; mutton, 3s 8d to 48 6d; veal, 4s 2d to 4s 8d; and pork, 3s 2d to 4s 6d per Blbs by the carcase. BREAD. The prices of wheaten bread in the metropolis are from 6id to 7d , of household do,, 6d to 6d per 41b loaf. HIDES AND SKINS. Market hides, 561 b to 641 b, 21d to 3d ; 641 b to 721 b, 3d to ; 721 b to 80th, 3d to 31d ; 801 b to 881 b, 3d to 4d ; 681 b to 961 b, 31d to 41d; 961 b to 1011 b, 4d to 41d ; 1041 b to 1121b,—d to —d. Horse hides, lOs Nto lls Od ; calf skins, light, 2s Od to 4s Od ; full, 7s 6(1 to Os Od ; polled sheep, lie Od to 14s Od ; half-breds, lOs Od to 12s 63; Downs, 8s Od to lOs Od; lambs, Os Od to Os ; sheadings, is 8d to is 9d. HAY MARKETS. SMITHFIELD.--Meadow hay, £.3 Os to £4 lOs Cd ; clover, £4 Os to £5 lOs Od ; and straw, £1 2s to £1 108 per load. A slow trade. CUMBERLAND..—Meaiow hay, £3 Os to £4 lOs Od ; clover ; £4 Os to £5 lOs Od ; and straw, £l4s to £1 lOs per load Demand inactive. WHITECHAPEL —Meadow hay, £3 Os to £4 103 ; clover, £4 Os to £5 10s Od ; and straw, £l2s to £1 lOs per load, Supply tolerably good. The trial of Walsh at th© Waterford assizes was concluded on Wednesday, and resulted in a verdict of wilful murder. Sentence of death was passed, the prisoner, how- Over, protesting tiffs innocence. SPORTING I: iv.. -This Day. CITY BETTING.-THIS DAY. NORTHAMPTONSHIRE STAKES. 100 to 12 agst Lord Zetland (taken) 11 to 1 agst Wingrave (taken) 11 to 1 agst Gardener (taken) 12 to 1 agst Dollar (taken) 12 to 1 agst Llithfield (taken) 14 to 1 agst Costa (taken) 15 to 1 agst Touch and Go (taken) 16 to 1 agat Lioness (taken) 16 to 1 agst Fairwater (taken) 20 to 1 agst Countersign (taken) 25 to 1 agst Flash in the Pan (taken) TWO THOUSAND GUINEAS. 100 to 15 agst Catnbuscan (taken) 10 to 1 agat Hollyfox (taken) THE DERBY. 14 to 1 agst Cambriscan (taken) SPORTING INTELLIGENCE, WARWICK SPRING MEETING.—FRIDAY. The Union Cup of 40 sous for horses not thorough-bred that have been regularly hunted ; 12st each, with maiden allowances. Gentlemen riders; jockeys 51b extra, Two miles on the flat. 13 subs. Mr J. Cannon's Dauntless (late Elcot Lass) 12st (Mr. F. Loton) 1 Mr Tir, It. Couri'a Vivandiere, 6 yrs, 12st .... (Owner) 2 The following also ran ;--The Prophet, Moorhen, Yeoman, and Redpole. Betting—Even on Vivandiere, 6 to 4 agst Dauntless, and 8 to 1 agst any other. Dauntless, followed by Moorhen, Prophet, the favourite, and Redpole, was the first away ; they came past the stand in Indian file, but halfway up the bill Vivandiere ran past her horses and became second, followed by Redpole, in which way they entered the meadows. At the milepost Redpole was disposed of, leaving the two leaders to finish the race home. Dauntless held her own to the end, and won easily by two lengths. Nothing else passed the post. A Scurry Handicap of 10 soya each, h it, Gentlemen riders ; professionals 71b extra. Winners extra. Three quarters of a mile. Six subs. Mr Mansfield's Damascus, 6 yrs, list 121 b (Mr Coventry) 1 Mr Cherry's Disappointment, 5 yrs, lOst 101 b .. (Owner) 2 Mr C. P. Hudson's Tolurno, 5 yrs, lOst 10Ib (Mr Edwards) 3 Mr Jenning's Bright Cloud, 4 yrs, lOst 31b ... (Owner) 4 Mr Tarling's Le Marechal, 4 yrs, 13st 31b (inc 71b extra) (Cox) 5 Betting-6 to 4 agst Tolurno, 2to 1 agst Damascus. Damascus made play, having the favourite and Disap pointment as his immediate followers, to half-way in the distance, where Tolurno gave way to Mr Cherry's colt, who failed to reach the leader, and was beaten easily at last by a couple of lengths ; a bad third. A Selling Race of 5 sous, with 25 added, for 3-yr-olds and upwards. Weight fur ege, with selling allowances. Gin• ners extra, Three-quarters of a mile. 4 subs. Mr Yardley's Mrs Nesbit, 3 yrs, 6st (in 31b extra) (C2O) (Wnrd) 1 Mr Gage's Flower Safety, 4 yre, 7st 71b (£2O), (W. Hobson) 2 Mr Mellon's Telscombe, 3 yrs, Gat 31b (X2O) I'Anson) 3 Mr Tompkins's Corneille, aged, Bst (X2O) .. (T. French) 4 Betting-3 to 1 on Mrs Nesbit, and 10 to 1 eget any other. The favourite, after the first 200 yards, went to the front, was never after approached, and won in a canter by three lengths. Telscombe, who headed Flower Safetyat the stand, was so unmistakeably stopped as to call for the attention of the stewards, who decided that all horses trained by Mr I'Auoa, and those belonging to Mr Mellon, should be debarred from running at this meeting, and notice of such decision is to be sent to the stewards of the Jockey Club. The winner was not sold. Flower Safety was claimed by Mr Tompkins. Grand Annual Steeplechase (Handicap) of 20 soya each, 10 ft and sif declared, with 10t1 added. The second saved his stake. Four miles. 42 subs, 15 of whom de• Glared. Mr Brandy's Fyflsher, 5 yrs, lOst (G. Gray) 1 Mr B. J. Angeli's Ireley, aged, lOst 91b.. (Mr Coventry) 2 Mr Nagent's Yeller Gal, aged, lOst 101b....(Mr Barry) 3 The following also ran :—Wee Nell, Medora, Portland ; Avalanche, Bell's Life, Amy, Worcester, Ocean Witch, and Ladbroke Lass. Betting —1 to 1 agst Avalanche, 6 to 1 agst Amy, 7 to 1 each agst Flyfisher, and Wee Nell, 10 to 1 agst Worcester, and 100 to 1 apt Ireley. Ireley made the running, with Wee Nell, Flyfisher, Medora, and Avalanche in attendance—then came Bell's Life, Portland, and Ocean Witch—the rear brought up by Medora and Yaller Gal. No alteration occurred during the first round, Ireley still going on with a clear lead, while Avalanche, who refused at the' fencd at the tap of the hill, was left in the rear. All cleared the brook well in the se. cond round, after which Flyfisher took second place, Wee Nell dropping back into fourth position, Ladbroke Lass lying third. Avalanche again refused at the same fence, and Portland fell crossing the Swan meadows. Running round into the straight Flyfisher drew to Ireley's quarters, at the distance headed him, and went in an easy winner by 20 lengths. Worcester would have been third, but was not persevered with, and was passed by Yeller Gal—Bell's Life was fourth, and Ladbroke Lass filth. Avalanche and the rest pulled up, and did not pass the pust, the last of all L.ing Ocean Witch. Hunt Cup Steeplechase, by subscription of 10 soya each, for horses regularly hunted with any established pack of hounds; 12st each. with penalties and allowances, Gen- tlemen riders. About three miles. 13 subs. Lord Uxbridge's Marble Hill, 5 yrs, 12st 71b (in 71b ex) (Mr Edwards) 1 Mr Ivens's Sir William. Est 131 b (in 141 b ex) Mr J. Rich) 2 Mr E. Green's Cantab, 6 yrs, 12st (Mr Coventry) 3 The following also ran :—Merrimac, Pelican, Whaley, The Prophet, The U.,eless Brute, Jerry, and The Don. Betting-5 to 4on Marble Hill, sto 1 agst Merrimac, and 10 to 1 agst any other. Cantab took the lead, followed by Merrimac, Pelican, Jerry, and Marble Hill.. Useless Brute, who refused the second fence, was not persevered with. Cantab and Merri mac jumpod the brook almost together, Jerry and Pelican lying well up, with Marble Hill and Sir William in the middle of their horses. Shortly after going over the hill Jerry fell back beaten, Whaley also giving signs of retiring. After passing the Swan meadows Marble Hill drew to the front, Sir William also joining the leaders at the turn into the straight. Lord Uxbridge's horse had the race in hand, and heading his opponent at the distance, won easily by six lengths; Cantab was a bad third, Merrimac was fourth, and Pelican fifth ; the others did not pass the post. Match, 20 sous each. Half a mile. Mr Formby's Miss Laurie Mr Annesley's black pony No betting. Won easily by 30 lengths. A Handicap SteeplAhase of 5 sovs each, with 50 added. Gentlemen riders. Two miles over the Steeplechase Course. 21 subs. Mr C. P. Hudson's Ballycarey, 10st 71b.. (J. Land) 1 Mr Dixon's The Old Squire, aged, list 41b..(R. Boyce) 2 Mr Nugent's Sir Bobby, aged (h b), lOst Sib (Mr Clear) The following also ran :—Killarney, Vulture, The Don, Pan, Dauntless, Lady Lovel, and Wasp. Betting-5 to 2 agst Dauntless, 100 to :30 each agst Ballycarey and The Old Squire, and 5 to 1 agst Lady Lovel. Lady Lovel and Ballycarey went to the front, the for mer leading for nearly a mile, when Ballycarey took up the running, but soon resigned it to The Old Squire. In the bottom the latter gave way, and Ballycarey, again going to the fore, ran in an easy winner by three lengths. Match; 50 soya each, hft ; Ilst 41b each. Three miles. Mr Lawterd's Grey Skin, 5 yrs Mr Fornab).'s Thessalian, aged NORTHAMPTON AND PYTCHLEY HUNT MEETING. MA.ItcH 30. Acceptances for the Earl Spencer's Plate of 100 sovs, added to a Handicap Sweepstakes of 15 soya each, sft. New Spencer Plate Course, straight. 62 subs, 26 o. whom paid. Age at lb Lady Clifden .. 6 9 4 Gemma .. 5 8 11 East Sheen .. 6 8 4 Cerintha .. 4 8 2 Alchymist .. 6 7 12 Biondella .. 5 7 12 ItAndeer 6 7 ,0 Suburban .. a 7 10 My Mary .. .. 5 7 10 Queen of Spain 7 7 Flying Fish .. 4 7 6 Soapstone .. 4 7 5 Attraction .. 3 7 4 Dolphin .. ~ 4 7 4 Lady Fanny .. 4 7 Canace 4 7 3 Craton .. 4 7 3 Amelia .. .. 4 7 3 livenhand • . Nebula .. Crytheia .. Trojanutt .. Ago M lb .. 6 7 0 .. 4 7 0 .. 3 6 12 ..4 6 11 Zar'a .. 4 6 10 Dirt Cheap .. 4 6 10 Country Maid .. 4 610 Soumise .. 3 6 10 Audacieuse .. 3 6 4 Orphene .. 3 6 4 Vandervelde .. 3 6 0 Tomfoolery .. 3 5 12 Junius .. .. 3 512 Weathergla6s .. 3 610 Wild Thyme .. 3 5 10 Lady di Vera .. 3 5 7 Aurora .. .. 3 5 7 Templar .. 3 5 7 THE DONCA.TEit STEEPLECHASE. Mr. Richard Johnson, the clerk of the course, writes to us, in reply to several correspondents : " Serious case was not struck out to me for the Doncaster Steeplechase." THE EDITORSHIP or THE Illustrated London .News, left vacant by the death of Mr. W. J. Stewart, it now appears, has been confided to Mr. R. Acton.— The Reader. THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, 29, Great George-street, Westminster, will be open to the public on Easter Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, from ten to five o'clock. HANGING ON BY THE SKIRTS OF IT !—A few days after the appearance of the Emperor's " Julius Caner,' a new drama of the same title, by D'Eunery and Mocquard, will be performed, which, the authors hope, will profit by the sensation created by the book itself.—The Reader. RUMOURED OCCUPATION GF BLAIR CASTLE BY THE PRINCE OF WALES.—It is rumoured (writes our Perth correspondent) that his Royal Highness the Prince of `Voles will become the tenant of Blair Castle for some time during the summer, the Duke of Atholl having shortly - to proceed to Canada to rejoin his regiment,-- Edinburg/ Coscrant. titular, HER MAJESTY. WINDSOR CASTLE, March 18. His Majesty the King of the Belgians, attended by General Count rte Moerkerke and Dr. licePl; arrived at the Castle, yesterday afternoon, from London. His Royal Highness Prince Arthur, attended by Major Elphinstone, and his Royal Highness the Dale of Cambridge, attended by Colonel Tyrwhitti also arrived. To-day is the anniversary of the birthday of ber Royal Highness the Princess Louise. The Queen, accompanied by her Royal Higbncss Princess Louise of Hesse, walked and drove in the grounds this morning. Their Serene Highnesses Princess Amelie and Princess Clotilde of Saxe-Coburg, and his High' ness Prince John of Glucksburg, visited the Queen, and remained to luncheon. The Hon. Lucy Kerr and the Hon. Caroline Cavendish have succeeded the Hon. Horatie Stopford and the Hon. Harriett Phipps, as Maid s of Honour. The Prince and Princess of Wales. The Prince of Wales rode on horseback yesterday morning, attended by Lieut.-Colonel Keppel. The Princess of Waes drove out and visited Westminster Abbey, attended by the Countess do Grey. The Prince and Princess of Wales, attended by the Countess de Grey and Lieut.-Colonel Keppelt went to the South Kensington Museum in the afternoon and visited the Mulready collection. The Prince of Wales, with Prince John of Gtuckg' burg, attended by Lieut.-Gen. Knollys, Lieut.-Col. Keppe], Mr. Holzminn, and Baron Guldenerohe) went to the Royal Institution in the evening to hear a lecture given by Professor Tnydall. THE COURT.—According to present arrangements her Majesty and the royal family will remain at Windsor Castle till about the 21st of April, when the Queen and members of the Court will remove to Osborne, where they will reside for about three weeks, and afterwards re turn to Windsor Castle for a short period. On leavirg indsor the Queen will proceed to Balmoral, British Equitable Assurance Company. ANNUAL MEETING. The ordinary annual general meeting of the share and policy holders in this company was held yesterday afternoon at the offices of the company, 47 and 48, King William' street, London-bridge. William Gover, Esq., chairman of the company, presided. The minuteB of the last meeting hava been read and confirmed. The MANAGING DIRECTOR read the following report The new business of last year has been considerabli larger in amount than in any preceding year. It has been taken with the greatest caution, and consists of a very high selection of lives. The care exercised in former years in the selection of lives has again been manifested by a much lower rate of mortality than that provided for by the Company's tables. 1,583 new policies have been issued during Cue past yea r , for assurances representing £252,015. The new annu al premium income thereon amounting to over £B,OOO. The new iris proposals received during the last year were 2,334 for £357,025; 75, per cent, of which have becotea policies, and a large number of proposals are under coil' sideration by the board at the present time. The progress of the new business of the coopany during.. the triennial period just ended is shewn J)37 the 0 1 lowing : Policies issued. No. Amount. 1861 .. 1,091 £177,075 1832 .. 1,267 .. 2 0,257 1863 .. 1,583 252,015 The regular increase of each year's new business will be noted. £8,769 16s. 7d. have been paid in the year for death claims and bonuses assured under policies. From the foundation of the company till the present time the total sum paid for death claims and bonuses has bee t £31,451 6s. 3d., distributed over 216 policies. A comparison of the three triennial periods termina . t ll3 4 with each division of profits made by the company, poi' most satisfactory results. Years. New Policies issued. No Amount. First 3 years 3,196 .. £507,060 Second 3 years Third 3 years Total 9 years The periodical valuation has been made by the actasti; and it appears that after setting aside an ample re serve': meet future expenses, as well as providing for every baby', lity of the company under its policies and otherwise, an; making a full allowance for bad debts, &c., there remain surplus as follows : From the non-participating business divisible by the shareholders, £1,836 2s ld, and from the mutual business, £12,108 9s 81, available for the policyholders. It is recommended that a reversionary bonus of 11 P e ei r cent, per annum up to the 31st day of December last f r r; c the 'date of the last division of profits as to Policies wilie participated in any previous division, and to as any rn`ei ties which did not so he res p ective from the Ist d a Y January next following the respective dates of such POlit ties, be declared on all Policies in the Mutual Deparraut effected for the whole term of life, dated on or before tPtI 31st day of December, 1861, which shall be in force oa the Ist day of April next, and on other business entitle, to participate in a due proportion, to be settled by the PI, tuary, and that the remainder be carried to the next divas of profits. This will lay the foundation for an inereaos dividend at future triennial periods. Also, that the sua?" o . £1,836 2s. ld., being the profits on the non-pierticipa in l business, be capitalised, making altogether to the credit the shareholders' profits account £5,5 40 6 s. ld. , and Oa' l 3s. 6d. per share per annum be paid, in addition t o the c ginal interest, on each share on which the first call has be fully paid up. Considerable att , ntion has been devoted to the i tnproc.ey; ment of the internal working of the company, and 0411„t the body of agents has been largely increased, the eaua n ,": o of balances due by agents is smaller in proportion to business done than at any fora body of highly respect B y men, distinguisbed by great personal energy and of &I I increasing influence. thy While the directors have to thank a great numi ter f shareholders and policyholders for valuable co-ope.ratioao extending the company's business, they think the .t tail e d more should be accomplished in that direction, con. rider ti' the vast number of pc lice holders, it being most ee2plll;,i. caller true that every additional policy decreases the r 0 5 ' 4 1 amount of expense, yields a broader basis for a true a 'i er ' s ee of mortality, and increases the profits participated in by policyholders. r'S The directors have made an alteration of the mans 4 4,1 remuneration. which they think will meet the approvael the shareholders. It may be observed that the profits from the non-P—ea. pating business, without taking one penny from the LOSII policyholders' profits, have increased the sharehol.oo prefirs thus early in the history of the company to an en 11 %i• revenue of 8a per cent, on the amount paid up on the - ginal shares. • et The CHAIRMAN said it was with more than an orclio,o feeling of pleasure he met the share and policy holders 'llO day, because the success that had attended the opera.ti°oo, of the society during the past year had been greater tl)cis any of the preceding ones. The report entered BO Wild into detail that he would not occupy their time at any r o e length, but he could not help referring to the gr eat incl ro e that had taken place iu their new business. It shoWe d io e mistakably the high estimation in which the company held by the public, and also spoke most lavou r6 c ,v for the activity that had been displayed by alle d e e p corned in the extension of its operations. (r -I" hear). The periodical valuations had resulted folt another very pleasing fact, viz., that after making d 0 and ample allowance for bad debts, &c., there roulisoft handsome surplus to divide amongst the members. ( hear.) The Government Annuities Bill had creatod 0000 interest in life assurance companies, and although thooli of Mr. Gladstone was looked upon as a great display t ot quence, to him (the chairman) it seemed quite clear ,„ot the Chancellor of the Exchequer knew but ver y little ol io life assurance matters. (Hear, hear.) He did no t 0 0 1 upon the measure with any alarm, bec ause the f3rooll Equitable was in a position to hold its own ; and W e , offices that would feel the effects of the measure weve „ f oto whose foundations were not of a solid description. (; of hear.) He had great pleasure in moving the adovti° re the report jt ad to them. a 110 The motion having* been seconded, was carried 11 mously. Resolutions were unanimously agreed to, re .e.lee t ': retiring divectors, with thanks for their past ex ert a special vote of thanks was awarded to the mai:130 4 , 41 00 tor for the ability and prudence with which he t or ' the business of the office. Vet/ Mr. W. S. GOVER, in acknowledging the con 3 . 0 said he felt extremely tf ;ratiled in receiving th e ti lt the meeting. He had ln' , one of jest in view, and oti to enlarge the operations d ad extend the benefi ts held fior ). by the British Equitable Life Assurance Society. . The proceedings terminated pith a cordial vote et """ to the chairman. Air Some of our newspapers seeml to be n' llo v w eri; puzzled by the connexion of M. Blavzim with M . fre oc , f the eta' correspondent terrible in the imagimaioj l 0 00 t police. A little knowledge of street Italie 1 1--E '"_ eou id hear daily on, the Lung' Arno or in the Chiteiae — % 008; their doubts at rest. " Flower" is a sort of idtpraa" e. i diood lisb for " Mezzini ;" " Mazza di fiori "—in the etrs' ; oo' cut down to " Mazza," meaning a bu nch of flown o r _ e , I ‘ / , gay; and " Mazzini," a little nosegay or single fa,_weci alazeini is unquestionably the perso na g e address Flower.—,elthenceunt e l 0 be THE ALEXAN M DRI CASE._ ;16 Lord C jo t announced yesterday that judgmen t would be.g.i'ecilgo, Manche, case on en early dey after the